Dem gubernatorial candidates talk pausing data centers, increasing minimum wage at forum

Democratic gubernatorial candidates in Wisconsin recently discussed their stances on data center development during a Wisconsin Citizen Action virtual forum. State Rep. Francesa Hong called for a pause on new data centers until corporate subsidies are removed and plans for alternative energy investment are established to protect natural resources. Former DOA Secretary Joel Brennan proposed a shorter, few-month pause to implement regulations that prevent taxpayers from covering construction, operation, or transmission costs, and to ensure they are not liable if a data center shuts down. Former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes advocated for more stringent regulations before any new data centers are built in Wisconsin. Other candidates, including State Sen. Kelda Roys of Madison and Milwaukee County Exec David Crowley, also backed new regulations. However, they expressed concern that outright blocking data center development in Wisconsin might simply drive projects to other states with fewer regulations, rather than encouraging compliance with Wisconsin's standards. A recent Marquette University Law School Poll indicated that 69% of Wisconsin voters believe the costs associated with data centers outweigh their benefits, an increase from 55% in October.